Eric Berry reportedly returning next week

HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 09: Eric Berry
HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 09: Eric Berry

The Kansas City Chiefs are getting Eric Berry back next week, according to a report.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Chiefs should expect Eric Berry back early next week. Berry has been holding out since being placed on the franchise tag back in March. While the two sides negotiated into July, there was never a deal reached.

Ultimately, Berry and the Chiefs missed the July 15 deadline. Berry is yet to sign the franchise tender, but that is apparently going to change soon.

The Chiefs obviously want Berry back in the worst way. Berry, 27, is coming off one of the more incredible seasons we have ever seen. Last year, the youngster survived cancer and then proceeded to play in all 16 regular-season contests, earning a Pro Bowl berth and First-Team All-Pro honors.

Without Berry, Kansas City’s defense has resembled a sieve in the preseason. He has been replaced by both Daniel Sorensen and Eric Murray. Sorensen will likely be the third safety in most packages this year, while Murray continues to learn his new role as a rookie, having converted from being a corner in college.

Berry is not likely to play in any preseason games. Should he report on Monday, he would only have a couple practices before the final tune-up against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night at Arrowhead Stadium.

That said, Berry should be back for the Week 1 affair against the San Diego Chargers. Considering how much Philip Rivers loves to throw deep, that’s a huge lift for the Chiefs.

It remains to be seen whether the Chiefs can sign Berry long-term. The two sides are not allowed to sign a new deal until after the season ends, and all reports were stating that a huge divide exists.

For now, welcome back, Eric.

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